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Alonso Keeps 2027 Decision Open as He Demands Changes to F1 Rules

His insistence that regulatory reform, not short-term car performance, will decide his future could push Formula 1 to accelerate its technical timeline.

May 22, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CANADA; Aston Martin driver Fernando Alonso (14) gives a quick interview during Lenovo Grand Prix Du Canada sprint qualifying session at Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Fernando Alonso has not committed to racing beyond 2026 and is weighing retirement while driving on an expired contract with few other seat options.
  • Citing Thursday's media day at Monza, Alonso said the sport’s regulations are the deciding factor for him and that he wants meaningful changes delivered in two to three years.
  • Aston Martin says talks with Alonso are ongoing and that the team is confident a deal can be found without rushing a public announcement.
  • The team has shown chassis gains since Budapest and scored ninth at Zandvoort, but Alonso and engineers say Honda’s Spec 2 engine has so far given only limited extra power and drivability improvements.
  • Alonso’s public stance raises the prospect that F1 rulemakers may face pressure to outline clearer, faster regulatory plans and it leaves Aston Martin uncertain as it plans its 2027 driver and technical programme.